Program

Challenges and Opportunities for SMRs: This session will explore Alberta and Saskatchewan strategic interests in integrating SMRs into their energy plans to achieve net-zero goals and revitalize heavy industries. It will also assess the progress made toward making SMRs a viable solution in the Prairies/Western Canada.

Strategic Integration of SMRs: An in-depth discussion on how SMRs fit into the national energy and climate strategy, their potential to support Canada’s net-zero emissions goal by 2050, and the collaborative efforts needed between government and industry to expedite this process.

Fostering Meaningful Collaborations: Focusing on the essential role of proactive engagement with Indigenous communities, this session will discuss what effective partnerships look like and how they can be structured from the inception to the decommissioning of SMR projects.

SMRs as a Tool for Industrial Decarbonization: Examining how SMRs can assist in reducing significant CO2 emissions from heavy industries by providing clean, continuous power and heat, and discussing their potential in producing low-emission hydrogen and synthetic fuels.

This session explores the burgeoning collaboration between Canada and the United States in the development and deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). As both nations seek sustainable solutions to meet their energy needs and climate goals, SMRs present a unique opportunity for cross-border innovation and strategic partnerships.

This session will explore how SMRs can play a critical role in meeting the energy demands of mega data centers, AI, and other emerging technologies. It will delve into the unique advantages of nuclear power, offering a compelling case for SMRs as a sustainable, reliable, and secure energy solution for the data centers of tomorrow.

Canada’s Role on the Global Stage: A critical analysis of how Canada can capitalize on its nuclear expertise to lead the global SMR market, discussing strategies for seizing international opportunities and fostering early relationships with potential partners.

Canada Energy Regulator stressed that under a net-zero scenario the country will need 25 gigawatts of SMR capacity—equivalent to about 85 grid-scale SMRs—by 2050, which would provide 7% of Canada’s power capacity. SMRs, if commercialized successfully could be a solution to Canada’s energy needs and a potential source for exports which Natural Resources Canada believes that Canada is well positioned to capture a share of an emerging global market for SMR technology that is expected to exceed $150 -300 billion by 2040. RBC in a recent report, project that a successful SMR industry could create a $3 billion to $10 billion annual opportunity for Canadian expertise by 2040.

This session will explore the emerging synergies between Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and hydrogen production, focusing on how these technologies can work together to accelerate the clean energy transition. As the world seeks innovative solutions to achieve net-zero emissions, the integration of SMRs and hydrogen presents a unique opportunity to address both energy security and climate change.

Key topics will include the potential for SMR-generated hydrogen to decarbonize heavy industries, transportation, and other energy-intensive sectors, as well as the strategic partnerships needed to overcome challenges and capitalize on opportunities in this space. By fostering collaboration between governments, industry leaders, and research institutions, this session aims to position Canada as a leader in the global clean energy landscape through the effective exploitation of SMR and hydrogen synergies.

Small Modular Reactors are poised to revolutionize the energy landscape with their promise of sustainable, carbon-free power generation. However, realizing this potential requires overcoming significant financial hurdles while seizing unique investment opportunities. This session will bring together leading financial experts to explore how we can unlock the future of SMRs. Together, we will dive into the complexities of financing SMR projects, strategies for derisking investments, and the pathways to successful commercialization.

Readiness for Integration into Utility Systems: This session will evaluate how prepared utilities in Alberta and Saskatchewan are to incorporate SMRs into their energy mix and the lessons that can be drawn from other provinces like Ontario and New Brunswick.

Enhancing Public Perception and Engagement: This session will tackle the evolving societal views on nuclear power and discuss comprehensive strategies to educate and engage the public on the benefits and safety of SMRs, specifically targeting the unique context of Western Canada.

Aligning Regulation with Innovation: This session will address the pace at which regulatory frameworks can adapt to the novel needs of SMRs, discussing the necessity of distinct regulatory processes and international cooperation in establishing common standards.

This session will explore the unique cybersecurity challenges associated with SMRs and microreactors, speakers will delve into key topics such as risk assessment, the integration of cybersecurity measures from design through to operation, and the evolving regulatory frameworks designed to protect these advanced technologies. The session will also highlight the importance of collaboration between governments, industry, and international organizations in developing and implementing effective cybersecurity strategies.

By focusing on these areas, this session aims to equip policymakers, industry leaders, and technology experts with the knowledge and tools needed to enhance the security of SMRs and microreactors, ensuring their safe deployment in the energy systems of the future.

This session will delve into the critical components necessary to support the growing SMR industry in Canada, focusing on both workforce development and supply chain resilience. As we prepare to build a robust SMR ecosystem, we will explore the workforce requirements and educational initiatives essential for cultivating the expertise needed across the industry. Additionally, the session will address the importance of developing a strong, integrated supply chain that can sustain Canada’s nuclear innovation.

Key topics will include how partnerships between academia, industry, and Indigenous communities can drive the development of skilled professionals, as well as strategies for creating a supply chain ecosystem that can meet the demands of SMR deployment and commercialization. This comprehensive approach will ensure that Canada is well-positioned to lead in the global SMR landscape.

As SMRs become a part of the Canada energy landscape, understanding the implications of nuclear waste management is crucial. This session will provide a comprehensive overview of the key considerations surrounding nuclear waste generated by SMRs, addressing both the technical and societal challenges.

The session will also explore how existing nuclear hosting communities have successfully navigated these challenges, offering valuable lessons that can be applied to the context of Western Canada.

Key topics will include regulatory frameworks, technological advancements in waste processing, and the role of public engagement in building trust and ensuring transparency. The session aims to equip local governments, policymakers, and industry leaders with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about nuclear waste management as SMRs are integrated into Canada’s energy strategy.

As the City of Estevan prepares to host one of Saskatchewan’s first Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), this session will delve into the unique siting considerations that have shaped its journey. Estevan’s experience offers valuable insights into the critical factors involved in selecting and preparing a site for SMR deployment.

The session will cover topics such as regulatory compliance, environmental impact assessments, and the importance of engaging local stakeholders throughout the process.

Key discussions will focus on how Estevan’s experience can inform future siting decisions across Western Canada, ensuring that SMRs are integrated into communities in a way that maximizes benefits while addressing concerns. This session is particularly relevant for local governments, policymakers, and industry leaders involved in the development of SMRs.

This session will explore the vital role that local governments play in the successful deployment and integration of SMRs within their communities. As SMRs emerge as a key solution in the transition to a low-carbon energy future, local governments are uniquely positioned to drive public engagement, influence policy, and facilitate the adoption of this innovative technology at the grassroots level.

Key topics will include how local governments can collaborate with industry, Indigenous communities, and other stakeholders to ensure that SMR projects align with local needs and values. Additionally, the discussion will focus on strategies for building community support and preparing local infrastructure to accommodate SMRs, ultimately empowering municipalities to take an active role in Canada’s nuclear innovation.